The sun hung low over the sprawling training grounds of the Mantra Academy, casting long shadows on the stone pillars that marked the arena. Sixteen-year-olds gathered, their faces a mix of anticipation and anxiety. Among them was Axel Killamon, a young boy with dark hair and a determined expression. Today, he would face the Trials and prove his worth as a Mantra Knight.
In this world, Mantra was everything—a force flowing through all living things. The strongest users, the Mantra Knights, were revered defenders of the realm. The highest rank among them was the Lance, leaders of their own groups, and legends in their own right. MC had trained relentlessly for this day, but control over his powerful Mantra had always been his struggle.
The Head Lance, Julius, a veteran Knight, addressed the group. "Welcome to the Trials of Mantra. Today, you will prove whether you have the control and mastery needed to join the ranks of the Mantra Knights. Remember, power without control is dangerous."
As the trials began, Axel watched as his peers demonstrated their abilities—flames, barriers, and earth manipulation. When his turn came, he stepped into the arena with a pounding heart. The first challenge was simple—striking targets with his Mantra. He focused and completed it with ease.
But the challenges grew harder. The final test placed him in a simulation surrounded by enemies. He fought well at first, but as the pressure mounted, his control wavered. Suddenly, his Mantra surged out of control, exploding in a wild burst of energy. He fell to his knees, gasping, the arena eerily silent.
Julius approached him, his face unreadable. "You have strength, but without control, it's a double-edged sword." Axel braced for rejection, but instead, Julius extended his hand. "You need guidance, but you have potential. You will join a group, and your training will continue. Your success or failure from here on out depends on you."
Axel, stunned but relieved, took his hand and stood. He had almost lost his chance, but he was selected. As the sun dipped below the horizon, Axel stood with his new group, knowing this was just the beginning. The true test was only starting, and the path to becoming a Lance was far from certain.